Having a Healthy Holiday!

Having a healthy holiday

            

December is such a busy month of the year, but while we love to get caught up in all the holiday spirit we don’t want to forget about protecting our pets! So, here’s a few things to think about when we are pulling out all those holiday decorations and making our homes feel festive:

            - Christmas tree water can be tempting for pets to drink, but be careful because it can   harbor harmful bacteria which can lead to stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting.

            - Electric cords can electrocute your pet if chewed on. Cover them up or hide them the best you can so they are not tempting your pet to nibble on them.

            - Ribbon and tinsel are especially tempting to cats and kittens. However, if ingested it   can get caught up in their intestines and cause serious problems.

            - Batteries contain corrosives that can cause sores in the mouth and gastrointestinal       tract.  Don’t leave batteries out where your pets can lick or chew on them.

            - Glass ornaments can break and cut your pet if they fall off the tree. Watch your pet     closely around the tree so they are not able to knock down any ornaments.

            - Candles and scented air fresheners are tempting for pets to rub up against or lick. If   your cat rubs up against something oily and them grooms himself, the oils can be   ingested and cause stomach upset. They can also be burned if the candles or oil is hot.     Keep these things out of your pets reach.

            - Plants can be harmful to your pets too. Lillies, poinsettias, mistletoe and holly all have the potential to cause stomach upset, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Keep these away    from your pets. You can always check the ASPCA Poison Control Center to read more        about which plants are harmful to pets. Their website is www. Aspca.org/apcc

            - Food and Drinks are tempting to share with your beloved pet, but they too can be        harmful. Never give your pet alcohol, chocolate, or excessive amounts of fatty foods.        They can cause stomach upset and possibly death if too much is ingested.

We want everyone to be able to enjoy the holidays without having to make any emergency trips to see the veterinarian. If you keep these tips in mind they should help you have a happy and safe holiday season. If by chance an accident does happen be sure to call your veterinarian immediately.  Sully Animal Hospital is open 6 days a week, with hours from 7:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.   If you have an emergency outside of those hours, there are emergency veterinary clinics we can refer you to that are open 24 hours a day to assist you. Happy Holidays!